A Brief History

Belmont First Baptist Church was founded in 1875 as Ebenezer "Stone of Help" Baptist Church. The congregation met on the west side of the street still called Ebenezer Street near what is now the Belmont City Park. Legend says that the early building burned and was rebuilt on the same site.

Services continued at the original site until 1912. The congregation constructed a new building just a few yards north of the present sanctuary site and facing north. Land for the new location was donated by C.C. Shook who provided much land in the area for public and worship use. In 1909, the church became Belmont Missionary Baptist Church. It gradually came to be called Belmont Baptist or First Baptist Church of Belmont.

In 1990, the name legally, became Belmont First Baptist Church, Inc. In 1930, construction began on a two-story sanctuary on the present site. Work was slow and money was tight. The great depression had staggered the area. It took about 9 years to complete the new structure.

After surviving an earlier fire and the depression, the congregation faced another severe blow in December 1950. The relatively new building was completely destroyed by an early morning fire. Without the aid of insurance, the structure was replaced in about 4 years. The town courthouse was used for a time. Later, a roof was constructed over the basement which served until the new sanctuary was completed which serves to this day.

Belmont First Baptist is legendary for embracing the Holy Word of God. Many fine and dedicated pastors have well and faithfully served. Bro. Jack Maroon recently completed over 38 years of service. The next pastor, Dr. Parish Hartley, is the great-grandson of Bro. J.F. Hartley, who served as pastor of First Baptist in the mid 1950's.

In 1971, a new pastor's home was constructed on the site of the 1912 sanctuary. In 1978, a two-story annex was completed as a south wing of the main structure which serves as classrooms.

In 1990, the sanctuary was extensively renovated. In 1999, a family life center was constructed at a cost of almost $900,000. That same year, additional land was purchased at the east end of the complex for future use.

Churches are about God's people. First Baptist is rich in history and tradition, even more importantly, priceless in its mission. Through the leadership of Bro. Trent Jaudon, new ministries are being added constantly. All these are conceived to edify the saints and grow the Kingdom of God. Yes, the history is rich but God willing, the best is yet to come. Join us!

* history provided by Jerry McAnally